how can I diagnose the root of the problem when my mac starts freezing for 10 sec each time I switch to an app?

Solution 1:

I provide three techniques for diagnosing the problem. Don't miss 2 & 3 below.

1. I'd run etrecheck. Etrecheck will analyze your machine and software and generate a report. Post results here so others can view. Experienced users have found the reported information useful when diagnosing problems. The proprietary stuff in the report gets filtered.

Install and run

• Download etrecheck. Goto the EtreCheck.com download page. The download link is at the bottom of the screen
• Install etrecheck. Goto your download folder. Double click on EtreCheckPro.zip
• drag the app to the application folder if you wish.
• Double click on etrecheck to run. The first five runs are free.

An alternative explanation how to install, run and report output for the EtreCheck Application by the author. https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-11591

How to report etrecheck data.

When the report is done, click on the export icon.

click on "Copy report" to copy to the clipboard Get back in your web browser and access your discussion. Create a new reply. Click on the <> code icon. Paste you etrecheck output into the code block.

which results in... You may find Old Toad's write up helpful. https://discussions.apple.com/docs/DOC-250000211

2. run /Applications/Utilties/Activity Monitor. Leave it in a visible window if you can. Maybe you can see some reason for the problem.

3. Try a safe boot. Shutdown your machine. Hold down the shift key. Poweron. The boot up will take longer than normal because the filesystem on the startup drive is being checked and repaired as needed. All about safe mode including what features and apps safe boot leaves out. Safe boot uses a software driver instead of using your machines video hardware. http://support.apple.com/kb/ht1455

Solution 2:

I suggest that next time this happens you make a note of the time it occurs down to the second. Then go to the console app and open it. The console app is in the utilities folder which is inside the Applications folder. When you open the console app there are several reports listed on the left. I suggest you open the System Reports and then scroll to the time of interest and see if any system warnings or errors were displayed in the report.

If nothing appears, try one of the other reports.